Guitar with Ian M.

I started playing guitar originally in 1991. Over the years I eventually picked up bass and ukulele as well (not to mention a plethora of other instruments, such as voice, drums, piano, and harp). I started teaching in 2001 throughout the Chicagoland area. First in music stores, then schools, then people's homes (including mine) and then online (live via Zoom). Besides teaching and performing, I also ran an all ages music venue and recording studio from 2006-2015. Teaching is my biggest love and I love seeing students learn. There isn’t a style I will not teach. All music to me is fascinating *** Lesson Details *** All lessons start with the basics (assuming the student doesn’t already know them). This includes: reading music and chord diagrams, understanding rhythm, basic music theory, etc. Meanwhile, we will apply this knowledge to songs of the student’s choice- this way they’re learning songs they like, and more about the instrument and music at the same time. As time goes on we’ll get into playing lead, advanced theory, songwriting and more. Above is the plan, but I am always open to suggestions from my students as well. As long as they are learning, I am happy. You can technically spend years on just one of the many paths you can go down with music- so I am always continually re-checking on the student’s current and up-to-date goals. *** Specialties *** Patience. I feel like it is necessary if you intend to be a good teacher. Other than that, I am very confident in my teaching skills. There isn't a genre of music that doesn't peak my interest. But no matter what the style, I will say one thing that I have always been strict about is proper technique and rhythm. I feel like timing is something that a lot of musicians take for granted and often have to learn the hard way later on. I try to incorporate it soon after a beginner's first lessons.